In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world, the dynamics of relationships and family structures have evolved significantly. Within our churches, we minister to a diverse group of individuals, including singles who long for a sense of belonging and connection. As a church family, it is crucial for us to understand the unique desires, challenges, and aspirations of singles and actively minister to their needs.  As a single adult myself, I work hard to surround myself with other like-minded, Christ-following singles. I conducted a poll within a large private Facebook group, designed for Christian single adults, and asked them to share the top things they wish their church family knew about being a single adult. They expressed many heartfelt and relatable desires. Here are the top five results:

  1. They want support in navigating life: Singles face unique challenges in their daily lives, and they appreciate when their church family provides support and guidance in areas such as career, finances, and relationships.
  2. They want to be valued for who they are: Singles often feel pressure to get married or start a family, and they want to be valued for who they are, regardless of their marital status.
  3. They want to serve: Singles want to be involved in serving their church and community, and they appreciate opportunities to use their gifts and talents to make a difference.
  4. They want to be included: Singles often feel left out or overlooked in church activities and events, and they appreciate when people make an effort to include them.
  5. They want to be treated as individuals: Not all singles have the same needs or interests, and they want to be recognized as unique individuals with their own stories and experiences.

Understanding the desires and needs of singles within your church family is a significant step towards a very much needed, supportive and thriving ministry. Now that we have explored what singles commonly wish their church family knew, here are some practical ways you can help meet those needs.

  1. Acknowledge and Validate Their Journey: Understand that singleness is not simply a waiting period, but a unique season of life filled with its own joys and challenges. Acknowledge the diverse experiences of singles and affirm their value and worth in Christ as individuals. Avoid assuming that all singles desire marriage or that singleness is a temporary state to be fixed.
  2. Provide Relevant Teaching and Discipleship: Offer teaching and discipleship opportunities that address the specific needs of singles. Topics such as navigating dating relationships, developing healthy friendships, managing finances, and finding purpose in their singlehood can equip them for this season of life. Invite speakers or mentors who can share their experiences and wisdom to encourage and inspire singles in their journey.
  3. Cultivate Mentoring Relationships: Encourage older, mature members of the congregation to invest in mentoring relationships with singles. This provides valuable guidance, support, and a sense of family. Such relationships can help singles grow spiritually, navigate life’s challenges, and provide a safe space for vulnerability and growth.
  4. Empower Singles in Ministry: Recognize and utilize the unique gifts, talents, and passions of singles within the church. Encourage them to serve in various ministries and leadership roles. Provide opportunities for them to contribute and make a difference, helping them feel valued and involved.
  5. Support Emotional and Practical Needs: Be attentive to the emotional and practical needs of singles. Offer resources, workshops, or counseling to address topics like loneliness, purity, contentment, and personal growth. Additionally, provide practical support in areas such as career development, financial management, and housing.

Ministering to singles in your church is an opportunity to demonstrate Christ’s love and cultivate a thriving community of difference makers.  By actively listening to their desires, embracing their unique journeys, and providing practical support and opportunities for connection you create an environment where singles feel valued, understood, and empowered. Be intentional to nurture the hearts of singles, recognizing the richness they bring to your church family. Journey alongside them as they grow spiritually, build relationships, and discover their purpose.